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Beta-2-Microglobulin
MessageFor Specimen Integrity during Extreme Weather see the “Lockbox Usage in Extreme Weather” document at the top of this page.
Test Code
B2MC
Alias/See Also
852;
B2-MIC;
Microglobulin;
Beta2
B2-MIC;
Microglobulin;
Beta2
CPT Codes
82232
Preferred Specimen
serum
Minimum Volume
0.5 mL
Other Acceptable Specimens
plasma from Lithium Heparin (Light Green Top) tube
Instructions
Barrier tubes (serum separator tubes or plasma separator tubes) are preferred. If non-barrier tubes are utilized, the serum/plasma must be removed immediately after centrifuging and placed in a screw-cap transfer tube.
Collection notes: Avoid hemolysis. Invert tubes at least 8 times. Allow to clot in an upright position for 30 minutes. Within 2 hours, centrifuge tubes 10 minutes. Keep tightly stoppered.
Do NOT re-centrifuge tubes. Do NOT freeze the primary collection tube.
Collection notes: Avoid hemolysis. Invert tubes at least 8 times. Allow to clot in an upright position for 30 minutes. Within 2 hours, centrifuge tubes 10 minutes. Keep tightly stoppered.
Do NOT re-centrifuge tubes. Do NOT freeze the primary collection tube.
Transport Container
Original tube preferred, may be sent in a screw-top transfer tube.
Transport Temperature
Refrigerated
Specimen Stability
Room Temperature = n/a
Refrigerated = 3 days
Frozen = 6 months
Refrigerated = 3 days
Frozen = 6 months
Reject Criteria (Eg, hemolysis? Lipemia? Thaw/Other?)
Hemolysis, Lipemia, incorrect specimen type, insufficient sample volume, improper storage conditions, exceeds specimen stability guidelines, contaminated sample.
Methodology
immunoassay
Setup Schedule
Daily
AU
AU
Report Available
daily
Clinical Significance
Beta-2-microglobulin normally passes through the glomerulus into the proximal tubule where much of it is reabsorbed. Serum levels are therefore an index of glomerular function. When impaired, serum levels rise in inverse ratio to glomerular filtration rate. Increased amounts of beta-2-microglobulin are excreted in several renal disorders, e.g., Balkan nephropathy, heavy metal poisoning and renal tubular disease due to therapeutic agents. Serial levels of beta-2-microglobulin in serum and urine are used to evaluate transplant viability and anticipate rejection. Following a successful graft, serum levels decline toward normal. Increasing serum levels provide an early sign of rejection. Elevated levels are also noted in lymphproliferative disorders, neoplasms (malignant and benign), inflammatory disease, and autoimmune diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and Sjögren's disease.
Performing Laboratory
CompuNet Clinical Laboratories, LLC
2308 Sandridge Drive
Moraine, OH 45439
Last Updated: November 19, 2021